The company has been involved in the production of super absorbent-containing roll goods for a number of years, but has previously worked with a number of global partners, the company reports. These relationships will continue, but the new line is expected to provide TAL with greater flexibility and product development opportunities.

Research and Development

“Initially the line will be used for Research and Development, as well as making commercial products,” commented Dr Mark Paterson, Product Development Director. “We are also willing to undertake short-order trial runs for potential customers where possible.”

The line can produce fabrics up to 2m wide in basis weights from 130 to 1000gsm, containing as much as 80% super absorbents. To help protect the fibre during processing, the line is housed in a low-humidity environment.

Needlefelt expertise

“The choice of needlefelt compared with the other nonwovens technologies, was based on a number of factors,” said Dr Mark Paterson.

“The key growth areas for us are the medical and filtration markets and the new line is a good fit for this. As a company, we have now established our own needlefelt expertise and can call on advice from our partners as and when required. We will also continue to supply airlaid fabrics and other converted products as normal.”

TAL has regularly invested in increasing the fibre-manufacturing capacity since it began production in 1993. However, the latest investment in its own nonwoven line is the most recent indication of the company’s ongoing commitment to the supply of a growing portfolio of super absorbent product solutions.

www.techabsorbents.com